Stella By Starlight big band arrangement by Bill Fulton

Description

This Stella By Starlight big band arrangement by Bill Fulton offers a fresh approach to the classic jazz standard. The chart combines the familiar character of the tune with original material, a featured lead alto solo, a drum solo, and an exciting shout chorus. As a result, the arrangement gives a big band several opportunities to build energy and showcase individual players.

Stella By Starlight Big Band Arrangement

Rather than simply restating the standard in conventional big band form, this arrangement develops the music through changing textures and featured solo moments. The lead alto takes an important role, while the full ensemble provides contrasting backgrounds and ensemble passages. In addition, the drum feature adds another dimension to the performance.

The chart eventually moves into an energetic shout chorus. Consequently, the arrangement can build naturally toward a strong ensemble climax. Original material also expands the musical framework beyond the familiar melody. However, the identity of “Stella By Starlight” remains central throughout the arrangement.

Features of the Stella By Starlight Big Band Arrangement

• Contemporary treatment of a classic jazz standard
• Featured lead alto saxophone solo
• Featured drum solo
• Original musical material
• Full big band ensemble writing
• Exciting shout chorus
• Written for standard big band instrumentation

Because the arrangement includes both ensemble writing and featured solo sections, it gives the band useful musical contrast. The lead alto can step forward as a featured voice, while the ensemble supports the soloist and drives the chart forward. Meanwhile, the drum solo creates another change of texture before the full band returns.

Instrumentation

• 5 saxophones
• 4 trumpets
• 4 trombones
• Guitar
• Piano/keyboard
• Electric bass
• Drums

This instrumentation provides the full range and weight of a traditional big band. Therefore, the arrangement can move from smaller featured passages to powerful ensemble writing without changing personnel.

A Fresh Big Band Treatment of a Jazz Standard

“Stella By Starlight” has become one of the enduring songs of the jazz repertoire. This Stella By Starlight big band arrangement approaches the tune from an arranger’s perspective, using the full ensemble to add color, momentum, and contrast. The combination of solos, original material, and ensemble writing makes the chart suitable for jazz bands looking for a distinctive treatment of a familiar standard.

For more information about the song and its history, visit the Stella By Starlight reference page.

Explore more big band arrangements and charts by Bill Fulton. You can also browse little big band arrangements for smaller horn sections.

Instrumentation:

• 5 Saxes
• 4 Trumpets
• 4 Trombones
• Guitar
• Piano/Keyboard
• Electric Bass
• Drums

Genre: jazz